At least 22 men lost their lives in the early hours of Monday, August 5, 2025, when a heavily loaded lorry conveying passengers and goods from Kano to Lagos crashed along the Suleja-Lapai highway in Niger State. The fatal incident occurred around 3:40 a.m., according to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).
The lorry, which was carrying 42 male passengers along with cargo, reportedly lost control in transit before veering off the road and crashing. Eyewitnesses said the force of the impact left the vehicle wrecked and bodies strewn along the roadside before emergency responders arrived.
Confirming the disaster, the Niger State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Aisha Saadu, described the crash as “a deeply unfortunate incident resulting from overloading and poor travel conditions.” She stated that 22 individuals were confirmed dead on the scene, while 20 others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
First responders from the FRSC units in Lambatta and Suleja quickly mobilized rescue operations following a distress alert from motorists. The injured victims were taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Lambatta for treatment.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the deceased were evacuated and deposited at the Suleja General Hospital morgue. Authorities have yet to release the names of the victims pending family notification.
The FRSC has warned motorists, particularly long-haul transporters, against overcrowding and night-time travel on poorly lit highways. Commander Saadu urged drivers to prioritize vehicle maintenance, avoid fatigue, and ensure adherence to safety regulations.
The Suleja-Lapai axis has been a recurrent hotspot for fatal accidents, prompting fresh calls for improved road safety enforcement, better lighting, and repair of deteriorating stretches along the route.
